Wall Mounted TV - Can I Install it myself or should I hire a Handyman?

Making a purchase to buy a flat screen TV can be confusing. What size TV
should you purchase? What type of screen would work better, Plasma or
Liquid crystal display (LCD)? These are all good questions but here is
a bigger one, where should your new TV go and how are you going to install
it? Many people choose to mount their TV to the wall because it is pleasing
to the eye and creates more floor space. We agree! However, mounting a
TV on the wall may be harder than it looks. Here are the basics installation
steps to know before you started or decide to hire a Handyman:

Step #1

Determine where and how high on the wall you will be mounting your TV.
A good tip is to use painters tape to layout the size of your TV on the
wall opposed to marking the dimensions will a pencil or pen. This will
allow you to visualize the placement of the TV and provide a clear template
to secure the TV to the wall with a wall mount kit.

Step #2

Use a stud finder to determine and mark the studs within the framing of
your TV. Once the studs have been determined use a wall mount kit to secure
the wide bracket plate to the wall and attach your TV to the mounting
arms. The mounting arms lock onto the bracket plate, securing the TV to
the wall. If you have metal stud framing, brick or other materials you
will want to contact a professional since there are special methods used
to secure a TV to these surfaces.

Step #3

Now that your TV is mounted you may want to hide the cables from your TV
to your AV equipment. Using your stud finder make sure to know where the
framing is from your TV wall mount to your AV equipment. Mark a spot to
drill a hole below or next to your wall mount that is approximately 2-3
inches from the stud. Next, mark a second spot to drill a hole next to
your AV equipment that is approximately 8 inches off the floor. The top
mark should run in a straight line vertically down the wall to the second
mark. Then use the stud finder to assure that there are no obstructions
in the wall from the top mark to the bottom mark. Now you can drill or
cut the holes that have been marked and carefully drop the cables from
the TV to the AV equipment.

If these steps seem outside of your comfort zone you may want to consider
calling a
professional handyman to get the job done right!

Mr. Handyman can maintain your home to save you money. One call really does take care
of everything on your to-do list. Make sure to stay on top of all your
household repairs, improvements and maintenance needs and
request service now online.